Exposure to modern world essential for development of  next generation: Jupally

UTNOOR (ADILABAD): In a significant move to bridge the vast socio-economic divide between indigenous communities and the modern world, Minister for Tourism, Culture and Archaeology, who is Adilabad District In-charge Jupally Krishna Rao on Saturday announced an “Education and Exposure Tour” for the Adivasis of the remote Kummarikunta hamlet. Visiting the village in Utnoor Mandal on Saturday, the Minister interacted directly with the Gond families, sitting among them to understand the challenges faced by those living in the heart of the forest, far from the reach of modern civilization.

Addressing the gathering, Jupally remarked on the irony of the region’s development, noting that while Adilabad is celebrated as a ‘Mini Kashmir’ by tourists worldwide, the sons of the soil who live here remain unaware of the progress of the outside world. To rectify this, he announced that the Tourism and Culture Department would facilitate an all-expenses-paid visit for the residents of Kummarikunta to the state capital, Hyderabad. The tour is designed to introduce the Adivasis to the city’s historical heritage, modern skyscrapers, and the Metro Rail system. To inspire the youth, the Minister stated that they would also be shown professional sporting facilities for cricket, volleyball, and badminton, emphasizing that the community should not be confined to the forest but should see the world and use that knowledge to uplift their region.

Reflecting on the 78 years since India’s Independence, Minister Jupally expressed deep concern over the persistent lack of basic amenities in tribal pockets and directed officials to ensure that the standards of living in these hamlets are elevated through immediate government intervention. He laid special emphasis on education, calling it the most potent tool for change, and urged the adults to at least learn how to sign their names to protect themselves against exploitation. He remarked that achieving self-reliance through education is the truest tribute to tribal icons like Komaram Bheem and Ramji Gond, promising that the government would provide slates, books, uniforms, and all necessary educational materials free of cost.

The Minister further assured that the government is committed to providing the four essentials of food, shelter, education, and healthcare, specifically promising that every eligible family in the gudem would be provided with a permanent (Pucca) house. As an immediate welfare measure during his visit, the Minister also distributed blankets to the elderly. The visit concluded with the Minister reaffirming that the state’s “Cultural Exchange” policy will ensure that while tribal heritage is preserved, every citizen is granted equal access to the journey of progress.